Irish Names that Start With D
- Dooley
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dark hero"Description:
A common Irish surname that's seldom heard as a first name, but has an appealing meaning.
- Dearbhail
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"true desire"Description:
This Irish Gaelic name would be more accessible in other cultures in its modern Dervla form.
- Dunbar
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"castle headland"Description:
Clear and strong, if a little heavy.
- Donal
Origin:
Scottish variation of DonaldMeaning:
"proud chief"Description:
Donal is, yes, just Donald with the final d cut off, but that somehow gives it a jauntier, fresher feel. Donal Logue is a Canadian actor and Donal Skehan is an Irish cookbook author.
- Duffy
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dark"Description:
This Irish surname packs a lot of attitude, projecting an image of spunk and sass. The Welsh singer Duffy, born Aimee Anne Duffy, is best known for her songs Mercy and Warwick Avenue.
- Duald
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dark, darkness"Description:
Obscure and quirky, but not without some appeal.
- Daley
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"assembly, gathering"Description:
Much stronger than Dale for a boy.
- Diarmaid
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"free man"Description:
This authentic form of the name of an Irish mythological hero with the power to make women fall instantly in love with him would work far better here as the Anglicized Dermot.
- Donnelly
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dark brave one"Description:
Makes Donna into a cool twenty-first-century unisex Irish surname.
- Dáivi
Description:
Dáivi is a masculine name of Sámi origin (indigenous people of northern Scandinavia), representing a form of David. The accent over the 'a' indicates specific pronunciation patterns in the Sámi language. Like its Hebrew root, it carries meanings associated with 'beloved' or 'cherished.' Unlike the internationally common David, Dáivi remains culturally specific to Sámi communities in regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. The name reflects the preservation of indigenous identity within Nordic cultures and represents cultural pride for many Sámi families. Its distinctive pronunciation and spelling maintain cultural heritage while connecting to the worldwide David tradition. For those with Sámi ancestry, choosing Dáivi honors traditional naming practices while offering a unique identity in global contexts.
- Donn
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"king; brown"Description:
Ancient Irish king of the underworld, so much more powerful than Don.
- Donough
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"brown chieftain"Description:
Barely-used Irish surname that's more streamlined than popular Donovan.
- Donnelly
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"dark, brave one"Description:
Donnelly is among the more appealing Irish surname names, less well used than Donovan. Related options include the place name Donegal and the mythological god name Donegan.
- Dahy
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"quick-footed"Description:
A long shot, but it could join the crop of dashing Irish surname names.
- Dublin
Origin:
Irish place-nameDescription:
With Galway and Ireland in play as names (not to mention Shannon and Kerry), there's no reason this one can't work, too.
- Doherty
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"not loving"Description:
Surname that could have pronunciation problems -- it's Dorrity -- as well as having an off-putting meaning.
- Derrik
Description:
Derrik is a masculine name representing a spelling variation of Derek or Derrick. The name ultimately derives from the Old Germanic name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people.' This particular spelling maintains the sound of the original while offering a slightly different visual presentation. Derrik gained some usage in English-speaking countries during the late 20th century, particularly in the United States, though it has always been less common than the standard Derek spelling. The name carries associations of strength and leadership from its etymological roots, while maintaining a friendly, approachable quality. Derrik tends to evoke images of a dependable, masculine individual. While not among the most popular male names, it offers parents a recognizable but somewhat less common alternative to the standard spelling.
- Daman
Description:
Daman is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Indian traditions, it derives from Sanskrit meaning 'string' or 'rope,' symbolizing binding strength. It also appears in Greek mythology connected to Damon, a figure representing loyalty and friendship. Some may see it as a variation of Damian, which has Greek origins meaning 'to tame' or 'subdue.' Daman has a strong, concise sound that travels well across cultures. The name's relative simplicity and international character make it appealing to parents seeking a name that feels both distinctive and accessible. Its cross-cultural nature allows it to carry different meaningful associations depending on one's heritage.
- Donall
Description:
Donall is a masculine name of Irish Gaelic origin, representing a variant spelling of Dónall or Domhnall, which ultimately derives from the elements 'dubno' meaning 'world' and 'val' meaning 'rule' or 'mighty.' The traditional meaning is often interpreted as 'world ruler' or 'world mighty.' This name has ancient Celtic roots and was borne by several Irish kings and notable historical figures. While less common than the anglicized Donald, Donall maintains stronger connections to its Gaelic heritage. The name has moderate usage in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora, though it remains relatively uncommon elsewhere. Donall projects strength, leadership, and a connection to Irish cultural traditions, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with authentic Celtic roots.
- Drennon
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"son of Draighnean"Description:
Brennan alternative.